Michael Faraday Prize

This award is made for excellence in communicating science to UK audiences.

Michael Faraday FRS

The Royal Society Michael Faraday Prize is awarded annually to the scientist or engineer whose expertise in communicating scientific ideas in lay terms is exemplary. Normally, preference will be given to a practising scientist or engineer, but other individuals whose primary expertise is in writing, broadcasting or other relevant forms of communication may also be considered.

The award is named after Michael Faraday FRS (PDF), who engaged in the public communication of science. The first award was made in 1986.

The medal is of silver gilt and is accompanied by a gift of £2,500. The winner is called upon to deliver a lecture at the Society.

Teams are not normally considered, except where each member made an individual and clearly identifiable contribution. A scientist whose contribution was essentially a single item (for example, a lecture or book) would also not be considered.

The award is open to citizens of a Commonwealth country or of the Irish Republic or those who have been ordinarily resident and working in a Commonwealth country or in the Irish Republic for a minimum of three years immediately prior to being proposed.

The recipient is required to give an agreed lecture (usually in January of the following year). Nominations remain valid for 3 years.

Nominations

The call for nominations is now closed. The next call for nominations will open in November 2015.